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April is the Month of the Military Child

April is designated as the Month of the Military Child, underscoring the important role military children play in the armed forces community. Sponsored by the Department of Defense Military Community and Family Policy, the Month of the Military Child is a time to applaud military families and their children for the daily sacrifices they make and the challenges they overcome.

Nearly four million children and youth have parents serving in the Active Duty, National Guard and Reserve forces, as well as those of post 9/11 Veterans. Many military and veteran-connected children face the challenges of frequent transition, mobility, and separation throughout their lives. Academic, social, and emotional challenges can arise from reintegration, prolonged separations, ill or wounded parents, and even trauma. The well-being of these children depends heavily on a network of supportive adults.

The experience of being a military child creates a constellation of strengths and challenges, yet they persevere. “I’ve seen most of this massive country and been exposed to a vast array of cultures, walks of life, types of people, and life situations,” shared James, a military-connected youth who views his mobile lifestyle as a strength. The Military Child Education Coalition encourages efforts that strengthen our military children and ensure opportunities for their quality education.

"Purple Up! For Military Kids" will be celebrated across DoDEA on Friday, April 21st. This is a day for DoDEA Communities to wear purple to show support and thank military children for their strength and sacrifices. Purple symbolizes the combined colors of all branches of the military-Army green, Coast Guard blue, Air Force blue, Marine red, and Navy blue.

We are grateful to our military men, women and families. Let’s join our nation in celebrating the Month of the Military Child.

Content, images, and photos courtesy of MilitaryChild.org and DoDEA.edu.

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The Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) is a 501(c)(3) global, nonprofit organization focused exclusively on the well-being and needs of America’s nearly four million military and veteran-connected children, specifically in the areas of academic opportunity and excellence, school transition support, and developmental needs. Our goal is to ensure that every military-connected child grows and thrives through good and challenging times in order to be college, workplace, and ultimately, life-ready.